The history of Cortina d' Ampezzo spans many centuries. The first settlements in the Ampezzo Valley date back to the 6th millennium BC. Later on, Cortina d' Ampezzo passed from the Venetians to the Austro-Hungarians. During the First World War, the gorgeous valley served as a battlefield before becoming a top winter destination from the 1950s onwards. Nowadays, a mere two-hour drive from Venice, Cortina d' Ampezzo is known for its spectacular scenery, top-quality outdoor activities, and authentic ambiance.